Who were the most intelligent lineal heavyweight champions?

They were all young men. Who of us were sensible as young men?

The wisest of them are clearly the ones who learned from their experiences rather from what they were taught in schools. But for base intelligence none of them were stupid.

some of the cleverest people do the most stupid things. As bright as they are they seem incapable of making sensible long term decisions. And sometimes those regarded as the least equipped actually go much further just out of making more sensible choices with people.

 

Some people were incredibly ring smart but not so smart outside the ring. Ali for example. Knew a lot about boxing but was often taken advantage of outside of the ring. Tyson too.
Can’t argue with Klitchkos (both have doctorates I believe).
Holmes for what others have stated
Tunney was always known for his smarts.

 

Not lineal but wasn’t Bonecrusher the first heavyweight title holder with a college degree?

 

Anyone can read and write.

Ali could walk into any room, and make everyone in that room feel like they were 20ft tall!

 

Yes. In the Lyle and Ali fights he displayed some of the most horrendous ring IQ in the history of boxing. Bad for him, good for the fans as it was extremely entertaining.

He does have underrated ring IQ against Norton, Chuvalo, and Frazier. But against the above mentioned fighters he just seemingly turned his brain off.

 

Dr Ironfist and Dr Steelhammer both hold PhDs in sports science.

 

IMO, it's nearly impossible to even begin to tell without having known each Lineal Champion, in person, for a long period of time each. Success inside or outside the ring can't provide the answer. Neither can education, literacy, or lack thereof. I wouldn't know how to even begin to answer that question. "Obviously a difficult question" indeed! I'm stumped!